After a summer of record heat, the UK may see another warm spell in early September, according to fresh projections from WXCHARTS and the Met Office's long-range forecast.

Forecast maps indicate temperatures could reach 28C across southern and western England by September 5, with similar peaks extending as far north as Yorkshire the following day. By September 7, temperatures could hit 29C in eastern and western England, while central and southern areas may experience highs of 27-28C.

These figures would qualify as an official heatwave in some regions, as the Met Office defines a heatwave as meeting the 'heatwave threshold' for three consecutive days. The threshold is 28C in the south-east, decreasing to 25C elsewhere.

Despite the potentially hot start to the month, the Met Office's outlook for August 31 to September 9 warns of continued unsettled conditions, stating: 'Likely remaining unsettled with showers or longer spells of rain across all areas at times.' Rainfall amounts are predicted to be above average, with the wettest conditions in the northwest, and there is potential for strong winds at times.

The Met Office also noted that 'some drier and more settled interludes could develop, perhaps becoming longer in duration across southern areas later in this period.' Temperatures are expected to be near average overall, but 'some short-lived warm or very warm spells are possible, especially in the south.'

The warm forecast comes after a summer that saw temperatures exceed 34C on multiple days, according to reports. However, heavy rain and thunderstorms have caused disruption in recent days, with more intense downpours possible.

Looking ahead, the Met Office has warned of an unusually strong El Nino phenomenon, which could bring storms and rainfall this autumn and winter. Professor Adam Scaife, head of long-range forecasting at the Met Office, described the event as 'unprecedented,' noting that sea-surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific could rise by more than 3C, far exceeding typical El Nino events.